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Dictionary definition of dredge

To remove unwanted materials, debris, or sediments from the bottom of a body of water or other surface.
"The search team decided to dredge the river for evidence related to the crime."

Detailed meaning of dredge

The term can also refer to the act of searching or excavating an area for something specific, such as information or evidence. In a water-based context, dredging typically involves using specialized equipment, such as a suction or cutter dredge, to remove sediment, silt, or debris from the bed of a river, lake, or harbor. This process is often used to deepen or widen a waterway to allow for larger ships to pass through or to remove pollutants that may have accumulated over time. In a figurative sense, the term 'dredging' can also be used to describe the act of searching or excavating through something, such as memories or archives, to find information or evidence that may have been forgotten or hidden.

Example sentences of dredge

1. The archaeologists dredge the lake to search for ancient artifacts.
2. The fishermen dredge the riverbed for clams.
3. They dredge the harbor to deepen the water for larger ships.
4. The company plans to dredge the canal to improve navigation.
5. The crew will dredge the pond to remove excess sediment.
6. They dredge the river to prevent flooding during heavy rains.

History and etymology of dredge

The verb 'dredge' has an etymology that can be traced back to Middle English and Dutch origins. It evolved from the Middle English word 'dreg-,' which referred to the dregs or the least desirable parts of something, often found at the bottom of a container. This Middle English term was influenced by the Dutch word 'dreg,' with a similar meaning. Over time, 'dredge' came to be associated with the act of removing unwanted materials, debris, or sediments from the bottom of a body of water or other surfaces, much like clearing out the least desirable elements. Its etymology reflects the notion of cleaning and purging, particularly from the lowermost parts, as implied by its historical roots in Middle English and Dutch.

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Further usage examples of dredge

1. The workers dredge the reservoir to increase its capacity.
2. The government authorizes a project to dredge the estuary for ecological restoration.
3. The team will dredge the channel to clear debris and improve flow.
4. The dredging company is hired to remove silt from the marina.
5. The municipality decides to dredge the drainage system to prevent clogging.
6. The environmentalists oppose the plan to dredge the coral reef.
7. The authorities dredge the canals to restore water circulation.
8. The engineers dredge the river to maintain a shipping channel.
9. The farmers dredge the irrigation channels for better water distribution.
10. The city council approves funding to dredge the harbor and attract more tourists.
11. The construction company will dredge the riverbed to build a bridge foundation.
12. The port authority plans to dredge the shipping lanes to accommodate larger vessels.
13. The city council approved funds to dredge the river and prevent erosion.
14. The environmental group called for action to dredge the polluted river and restore its health.
15. The community organized a cleanup event to dredge the creek and remove trash.